Fortunately, you can make a waterfall countertop out of almost any countertop material, including porcelain, wood, stone, quartz, concrete, or plastic. The main concern is making sure the sides match the top in a way that doesn’t throw off the whole point of the waterfall aesthetic. “It’s typically easier to match up veining using a fabricated material, like porcelain or quartz,” LaBoda says.
Another crucial factor is what you’ll be using the countertop for: “If this countertop is located in a kitchen and durability is a main concern, quartz, porcelain, and certain stones may be the best choice,” LaBoda says. “If this countertop is a desk, wood or marble may be a consideration.”
In the end, you really could make do with any material that looks to flow as one piece, Sanga says. “Waterfall countertops don’t have to be stone, although a hard surface that is easy to clean is generally recommended,” she says.
What are the best spaces for waterfall countertops?
Though most people think of waterfall islands in modern kitchens, this popular element of contemporary style—like a backsplash—doesn’t have to be restricted to where you cook or eat.
“Waterfall countertops can be implemented anywhere you have custom or built-in cabinetry, such as bathrooms,” Sanga says. “They look best on islands and end cabinets where there isn’t a wall to capture the end of a cabinet.”
They’re a popular choice for modern-leaning offices now too, LaBoda notes, pointing to pieces like desks and entryway consoles as ideal for the design choice. Levy says they work best in large, open spaces, such as a loft or open-plan living area. They might have a particular appeal for those who love “clean lines, Italian, and midcentury profiles,” she notes.
If you’re looking for purely traditional design ideas, then waterfall countertops are probably not for you.
What do I need to consider before putting in a waterfall countertop?
Aside from the expense and what room to install it in, you should think about how the waterfall countertop will fit in with your current home decor: Will a stainless steel waterfall countertop really mesh well with an otherwise all-white kitchen?